Ranking Member Shaheen, Senator Curtis Lead Bipartisan Senate Delegation to Taiwan, South Korea and Japan
Pipping Ceremony
Gaya, 07 March 2026 – A Proud Milestone: 281 Men and Women Officers Commissioned at the Passing Out Parade at Officers Training Academy, Gaya
On a solemn and proud occasion at the Officers Training Academy, Gaya, the 28th Passing Out Parade of the Short Service Commission Technical (Men and Women) Courses marked the commissioning of young leaders into the Indian Army. The parade symbolised the successful culmination of rigorous and transformational military training and reflected the Academy’s steadfast commitment to excellence, discipline and leadership in keeping with its motto, “Shaurya, Gyan, Sankalp” (Courage, Knowledge, Resolve).
Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, reviewed the parade and congratulated the Officer Cadets on their successful completion of training. In his address, the Reviewing Officer inspired the newly commissioned officers to embrace innovation, continuously upgrade their knowledge and remain adaptable in an evolving battlefield environment, while steadfastly upholding the core values and traditions of the Indian Army.
A total of 281 Officer Cadets were commissioned, including 253 Officer Cadets from the Short Service Commission Technical Entry (Men), 64th Course and 28 Officer Cadets from the Short Service Commission Technical Entry (Women), 35th Course. Their commissioning marks a significant milestone in the growing legacy of the Officers Training Academy, Gaya, and further strengthens the leadership cadre of the Indian Army.
The parade concluded with the traditional Antim Pag, as the newly commissioned officers marched forward to take their first step into commissioned service. This was followed by the Pipping Ceremony, a moment of immense pride and fulfilment for the officers and their families, during which stars were adorned on their shoulders and the solemn oath of allegiance was administered, marking the beginning of their journey as leaders committed to honour, duty and service to the Nation. The events were attended by proud parents, family members, senior Army officers and distinguished guests.
While addressing the passing out courses, the Reviewing Officer imparted guidance to the newly commissioned officers with wisdom and conviction. He urged them to wear the uniform with humility and pride, let integrity guide every decision and compassion define their leadership. He emphasised that true command is earned through strength of character, personal example and unwavering commitment to selfless service. His words reminded the young officers that the uniform represents not merely authority, but an enduring covenant of trust, responsibility and honour.
The Reviewing Officer underscored that the young officers inherit a magnificent legacy forged through generations of honour and sacrifice. He called upon them to remain adaptive to evolving challenges, resolute in adversity and steadfast in duty. Above all, he exhorted them to place the Nation unequivocally above self and dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. His address served as a powerful reminder that commissioned service is a lifelong calling of the highest order.
The Reviewing Officer presented the following awards:-
- Sword of Honour was presented to Academy Under Officer Kuldeep for being adjudged the Best All Round Officer Cadet.
- Gold Medal for standing First in the Order of Merit was presented to Battalion Under Officer Aswin Kirupai.
- Silver Medal for standing Second in the Order of Merit was presented to Academy Under Officer Kuldeep.
- Bronze Medal for standing Third in the Order of Merit was presented to Battalion Cadet Adjutant Charan GV.
- Gurez Company was awarded the Chief of Army Staff Banner for being the overall Champion Company.
In his concluding address, the Reviewing Officer congratulated the newly commissioned officers and their proud families, and expressed confidence that they would uphold the finest traditions of the Indian Army, lead with integrity and courage, and serve the Nation with unwavering commitment throughout their professional careers.
